- By Priyanka Munshi
- Sat, 27 Jan 2024 03:40 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Early Signs Of Ovarian Cancer: Ovarian cancer can be treated with the right treatment, which leads to early identification. However, the cancer often shows no symptoms in the early stages, making early detection difficult. On the other hand, recognizing some symptoms—like continuous bloating, pelvic pain, altered bowel habits, or frequent urination—can help facilitate timely medical care.
Frequent checkups and tests can help in early detection, particularly for those with a family history of ovarian cancer. Also, early-stage ovarian cancer is more likely to be limited to the ovaries, which improves its prognosis and allows for chemotherapy and surgical intervention.
Signs Of Identifying Ovarian Cancer At An Early Stage (Image Credit: Canva)
Dr. Krishnaveni Nayini, who is a senior consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Yashoda Hospitals in Hyderabad, exclusively told Jagran English about the 7 signs of identifying ovarian cancer at an early stage.
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According to Dr.Krishnaveni, "In ovarian cancer, the cancer cells come from the ovary. This is called primary ovarian cancer. However, in some instances, these cells are thought to come from the fallopian tubes that are close to your ovaries. In most cases, the reason why ovarian cancer develops is unknown."
Factors In Developing Ovarian Cancer
The risk increases with age. More than 8 out of 10 cases occur in women over the age of 50.
Being overweight or obese increases the risk.
If the number of eggs a woman releases (ovulation) during her lifetime is reduced, her risk of getting ovarian cancer is lower. Factors that reduce the number of times a woman ovulates include taking the oral contraceptive pill, being pregnant, or breastfeeding. The risk increases slightly in women who have not had children and who have a late menopause.
A family history of ovarian or breast cancer increases the risk. This can be the result of a faulty gene. The most common faulty genes are BRCA1 and BRCA2. About 1 in 10 ovarian cancers may be caused by a faulty gene.
7 Signs of Detecting Ovarian Cancer
- lower abdominal pain or pelvic pain
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain related to your bowels
- A feeling that you want to pass urine urgently and more frequently.
- A change in appetite or feeling full quickly
- Loss of weight
- Distended (swollen) abdomen
Ovarian cancer may be suspected if an ovary appears abnormal on an ultrasound scan. Abnormal blood tests, such as high levels of a protein called CA125, can make it more likely that it is malignant.
Signs Of Identifying Ovarian Cancer At An Early Stage (Image Credit: Canva)
CT Scan (Computed Tomography Scan)
Sometimes you may be advised to have a biopsy (the taking of a small sample of tissue for examination). This may be done while you are awake in the X-ray department or as a keyhole operation with a general anesthetic.
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At last, Dr.Krishnaveni said, "If your abdomen is swollen with fluid (called ascites), you may be advised to have this drained. This is usually done under ultrasound guidance. The removed fluid may be checked for cancer cells. If cancer is confirmed, you will be referred to a specialist gynecology cancer center to plan treatment."